Rumours of a delay have been circulating the net, following a report at GameReactor, but we've just received official confirmation from a Microsoft spokesperson. "We want to ensure our customers get the best Xbox One experience the first day it is available. In order to meet initial demand and deliver the best product and experience for consumers, we are narrowing our November launch from 21 countries to 13," said the console manufacturer.

"Xbox One will launch first in the US, Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Australia, New Zealand, United Kingdom, France, Germany, Spain, Italy, Ireland and Austria in November 2013. The system will launch in other markets, including Russia, Belgium, Netherlands, Switzerland, Sweden, Norway, Finland, and Denmark in 2014."

Yikes! To make up for this, Microsoft is going to give out a free game if you have pre-ordered the console.

"We understand this is disappointing news to our fans in those markets. To show our appreciation for their patience, customers who have already pre-ordered an Xbox One Day One system before today in those countries will also receive a pack-in game with their system when it launches. (Subject to availability; see your local retailer where you pre-ordered for complete details.)"